SingAbout: Singing for Breathing is a social singing activity based on a recognised music therapy specifically designed to help those with a respiratory condition. It's proven to help improve breathing, movement, speech and confidence.

Refreshments are provided. Sessions are led by experienced practitioner Erica Myers. A voluntary donation is appreciated.

Singing for Breathing sessions are held at the Respiratory Department Gym at St Mary's Hospital, Newport, every Thursday, 11am – 1pm.

Background

Independent Arts' initial phase of SingAbout: Singing for Breathing was delivered during 2014-15 in partnership with the Respiratory Department at St Mary's Hospital, Breatheasy and Healing Arts, and funded by My Life A Full Life. You can read the project evaluation report here.

We are delighted to have secured funding from HealthShape through the People's Health Trust to offer more sessions in 2016/17.

SingAbout: Singing for Breathing is based on a recognised form of therapy specifically developed for individuals with a respiratory condition. Extensive research has been carried out in this area, with flagship projects being delivered at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London.

Each session includes physical and vocal warm up activities, the vocal production of phonic sounds, singing together and relaxation strategies.

Singing for Breathing has been demonstrated to reduce anxiety about breathing difficulty and increase confidence in self-managing everyday activity and living. Participants have described engaging in more social and valued activities and experience less difficulty breathing. SingAbout: Singing for Breathing aims to improve the quality of life, health and wellbeing of those who have been diagnosed with a respiratory condition. The intended outcome is that individuals have increased confidence to self-manage their condition.

What participants say about Singing for Breathing

100% said they felt more connected to the community because of the sessions.

82% said that their social network had expanded.

100% said their thoughts and suggestions are valued and that they are able to contribute to the way the sessions are run.